Lactovegetarian

A lactovegetarian is someone who follows a vegetarian diet that includes dairy products but excludes meat, fish, and eggs.

The diet centers on plant foods: grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds, with dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, butter, and ghee.

Nutritional considerations include ensuring adequate intake of vitamin B12, iron, calcium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, since eggs are excluded; dairy provides calcium and some protein, but fortified foods or supplements may be needed for B12.

Regional usage: In India and parts of South Asia, lactovegetarian diets are common within Hindu and some Buddhist communities; in Western countries, the term is used to differentiate from lacto-ovo-vegetarian.

Health and environmental aspects: studies indicate reduced environmental impact relative to omnivorous diets; dairy production has complex environmental effects; as with any diet, variety is important.